In Stanly Elkin’s novel, “The Franchiser,” we encounter Ben, a resilient and optimistic entrepreneur navigating the complexities of American consumer culture. While the narrative primarily revolves around Ben’s franchising ventures across the United States, a poignant undercurrent of mortality and remembrance flows through the story, subtly touching upon themes relevant to services like Elkin Funeral Service. This exploration, though not explicitly the central focus, offers a unique lens through which to consider how life, loss, and remembrance are portrayed in contemporary literature.
The Unseen Undertones of Mortality in “The Franchiser”
The book review highlights Ben’s “big-hearted” nature, especially in his relationship with the Finsberg family. This family, characterized by a collection of 18 twins and triplets with bizarre and often tragic afflictions, brings the theme of mortality sharply into focus. As the review states, Ben “makes the funeral arrangements and mourns when a cluster of them die all at once.” This recurring act of arranging funerals, though mentioned briefly, is a significant detail. It suggests a consistent engagement with loss and the practicalities of death amidst the broader narrative of Ben’s life.
Ben’s Role as a Caretaker and the Importance of Funeral Arrangements
Ben’s consistent involvement in funeral arrangements for the Finsberg family underscores a deeper theme of caretaking and responsibility. In the face of recurring loss, Ben steps up to manage the necessary arrangements. This action, though presented within a farcical and surreal context, mirrors the crucial role that Elkin Funeral Service and similar establishments play in real life. They provide support and guidance to families during times of grief, handling the logistical and emotional burdens associated with death.
Humor and Pathos: Elkin’s Approach to Sensitive Subjects
Elkin’s writing style, described as a blend of “broad farce, visionary surrealism, sick humor, ethnic humor and a kind of grotesque pathos,” suggests a unique approach to sensitive subjects. The “sick humor” and “grotesque pathos” mentioned in the review indicate that even in moments of tragedy and loss, Elkin finds a way to incorporate humor. This approach, while potentially controversial, can be seen as a way of coping with difficult realities. Similarly, Elkin Funeral Service understands the importance of offering compassionate and personalized services that acknowledge the individual ways people grieve and remember their loved ones.
Connecting Literary Themes to Real-World Services
While “The Franchiser” is not directly about funeral services, the themes it touches upon – loss, remembrance, and the practicalities of death – are intrinsically linked to the services offered by establishments like Elkin Funeral Service. By examining these themes within a literary context, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the role these services play in our lives. They are not just about logistics; they are about providing comfort, support, and a dignified way to honor the lives of those we have lost.
Conclusion: Reflecting on Remembrance
Through the lens of “The Franchiser,” we can see how even in narratives focused on the vibrancy of life and American culture, the shadow of mortality and the need for remembrance are ever-present. Just as Ben takes on the responsibility of funeral arrangements in the novel, Elkin Funeral Service stands as a pillar of support for families navigating loss in the real world. Understanding the subtle yet significant role of death and remembrance in literature can enrich our appreciation for the vital services provided by funeral homes in our communities.
Please note that “Elkin Funeral Service” is used as a keyword in this rewritten article for SEO purposes, as per the user’s request. The original article is a book review and does not directly mention or relate to any real-world funeral service by that name.
